Title: Fear Itself Book One
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Writer(s): Matt Fraction
Artist(s): Stuart Immonen
Colorist(s): Laura Martin
Letterer(s): Chris Eliopoulos
Cover Artist: Stuart Immonen
Story/Concept: (7.5/10) The world is in shambles in the aftermath of Siege and the destruction of Asgard and the Heroes try there best to reassure the public only it is not working as they plan. Now a centuries old evil is being unleashed on the earth by none other than the daughter of the Red Skull.
Writing: (8/10) The only shortcoming I can say about this book that I can say is that I would have liked a little more background information on the daughter of the Red Skull. Otherwise I loved the character notes that Fraction hits throughout this issue were just comic book goodness to my soul. He really has a handle on Thor and all the other Asgardians characters, but the scene between Odin and Thor midway through the book was just phenomenal. This is the first Marvel event I have read in quite some time that I actually feel was self contained and I don’t have to read every tie-in that comes out to get the main story of the event. So hopefully if that fact remains true for the rest of the series this event will be a success in my eyes.
Art: (10/10) I have to say this is some of the best work I have seen from Stuart Immonen ever! He has really taken his game to the next level in this book for this event; now the only thing is can he maintain it for the stretch of the series. Marvel’s track record on this has been shaky at best of their last few events with artwork quality faltering towards the end or lateness with artwork causing delays. Immonen to my knowledge has never had either problem so I have high hopes that he will come through like he always has in the past, and I think that this might go down as the most visual stunning event Marvel has produced in recent years.
Cover: (8.5/10) A very cinematic cover and the quality is top notch really gives the event presence that jumps out and captures your eye.
Overall: (8.5/10) Can’t complain with too much considering this is the first issue of a seven-issue event. I think the creative team has done a great job laying the foundation on what appears to be an entertaining event though at this point it is unclear what major ramifications will come out of it though I’m along for the ride so I can find out.
Bottom Line: Solid first issue if you on the fence on this one I think between the good writing and excellent visuals served up by Immonen are worth the cost of admission by itself, so pick it up you will enjoy it.